Laboratory Manager

Vernon Health is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Laboratory Manager to lead and support all laboratory operations across our hospital and clinic facilities. This is a working manager role, providing both leadership oversight and hands-on benchwork. The Laboratory Manager ensures high-quality, cost-effective, and customer-focused laboratory services while maintaining compliance with all regulatory standards. This individual will oversee personnel, manage departmental performance, maintain quality and safety programs, and serve as a key resource for laboratory staff, leadership, and clinical partners. Key Responsibilities Leadership & Staff Management Recruit, hire, train, and develop laboratory personnel; provide coaching, performance evaluations, and corrective action when needed. Schedule and assign work, ensuring adequate staffing and appropriate skill mix. Oversee competency assessments, licensure/certification verification, and ongoing staff education. Supervise MLT student clinical rotations in collaboration with local colleges. Operational Management Maintain a cooperative, professional work environment through consistent communication and team engagement. Ensure timely, accurate completion of all laboratory requests within regulatory and clinical guidelines. Report regularly to the Director of Ancillary Services regarding operations, results, and departmental needs. Regulatory Compliance & Quality Develop, implement, and monitor laboratory policies, procedures, and quality standards. Ensure full compliance with CLIA, OSHA, AABB, and all regulatory agencies. Maintain a robust internal and external quality control program and lead corrective actions when needed. Guide Continuous Quality Improvement processes and document control initiatives. Financial & Resource Management Prepare and manage the departmental budget, including supplies, equipment, and capital requests. Collaborate with Purchasing to order supplies and maintain vendor relationships. Review and approve invoices, pricing, and contract items. Determine CPT codes, test charges, and billing rates as appropriate. Clinical & Technical Responsibilities Perform benchwork regularly to maintain proficiency and support staffing needs. Perform and/or oversee testing across Hematology, Coagulation, Blood Bank, Serology, Chemistry, Urinalysis, and Microbiology. Collect specimens, including venipuncture, arterial puncture, heelsticks, fingersticks, and culture collection. Troubleshoot equipment issues and coordinate timely repairs and preventive maintenance. Interpret and integrate test results, addressing discrepancies and confirming abnormal findings. Additional Responsibilities Conduct laboratory meetings and maintain minutes. Participate in committees, workshops, and continuing education. Prepare required reports for infection control, blood utilization, medical records, and testing statistics. Serve as or collaborate with Clinic Lab Director, Technical Consultant, and CLIA designee for clinic labs. Oversee point-of-care testing and related competency evaluations. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Medical Technology or related field BS MT (ASCP) or equivalent; registered or eligible Completion of medical technology internship is required Experience with high-complexity testing required CPR certification required Minimum three years of relevant laboratory experience required (hospital preferred) Prior supervisory or management experience strongly preferred Strong leadership and team-building capabilities Ability to prioritize work and manage multiple responsibilities Excellent problem-solving and critical-thinking skills Effective written and verbal communication Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism Knowledge of safety regulations and laboratory compliance standards Why Join Vernon Health? At Vernon Health, you'll join a mission-driven organization committed to providing exceptional patient care, fostering professional growth, and maintaining a collaborative and supportive work environment.